Billy Donovan explains why the Bulls are staying focused in the midst of trade rumours

Despite being named in numerous trade talks, the Bulls continue their march toward the season they desire after a slow start. It may be difficult, but they have opted to keep moving forward regardless of the outside noise and comments.

Just play ball

For head coach Billy Donovan, his Bulls team isn't bothered by the rumblings that surround the franchise.

The poise and composure to play will remain, and these key components have given them ample reason to push through odds and adversities.

“I think our guys just enjoy playing basketball,” Donovan said on what influences the team to advance amid trade distractions. “I don't think that they're really thinking too much about that. I was really pleased with the way they came out.”

Bulls keep on growing

Amid the hardships, the Bulls tend to keep their pounding. With Zach LaVine out, Chicago found new and refreshing ways to compete on a nightly basis. They saw Coby White stepping up his game, DeMar DeRozan leading the team's fast-paced charge, Patrick Williams gradually recovering his footing, and Alex Caruso providing that heart and tenacity. From this, they gradually improved their record to 10-16.

Watch this ball movement.@NBCSChicago | @DeMar_DeRozan pic.twitter.com/7jYXgCvDhk
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) December 12, 2023

Their gritty win against the Miami Heat — a recovery after back-to-back losses against the Milwaukee Bucks and the Denver Nuggets — couldn't be a more perfect presentation for Donovan to show to all that the Bulls are unmoved and determined to carry on and deflect the trade drama.

“We had a really tough back-to-back against Milwaukee and I think we were disappointed with the way we played against Denver. They came back and responded so I don't think they're thinking about that. They're thinking about basketball.”

Bulls keep on growing

Billy Donovan says the Chicago Bulls need to do a better job of relying on their defense